Police expect arrests after spate of Litchfield burglaries

By KIMBERLY HOUGHTONUnion Leader CorrespondentSeptember 17. 2013 10:04PMLITCHFIELD — Police have identified two individuals believed to be responsible for at least nine residential burglaries throughout the past few weeks.

“We are anticipating a couple of arrests in the near future,” Police Chief Joseph O’Brion said Tuesday. Although O’Brion did not identify the alleged burglars by name, he said the department is working with other law enforcement agencies from other communities — specifically Londonderry and Manchester — to determine whether these two individuals may be connected with other crimes in those areas.

A search warrant was recently utilized at a Litchfield residence in which several items stolen from the recent home burglaries were discovered. Police also located other stolen items, including gold chains, necklaces and rings, within area pawn shops, said O’Brion.

“There was one house where over $4,000 in stuff was stolen,” said the chief, adding most the items being taken during the burglaries are small, valuable pieces of jewelry.

The north end of Litchfield has experienced several burglaries in the past few weeks, prompting local police to issue a CodeRED notification alert about the crimes earlier this month.

Since that time, O’Brion said his department has received numerous tips that have helped police identify the alleged burglars. Their names will be disclosed once they have been arrested, said O’Brion, who anticipates an arrest within the next week or two.

Most of the burglaries have occurred between 5 and 7 p.m., according to O’Brion, who said the two individuals are forcing their way into homes.

O’Brion noted there are several local residents who own pistol permits, adding the burglars are “really putting themselves at risk” by forcing their way into homes that may be occupied during daylight hours.

Citizens have been helpful in reporting suspicious vehicles and unusual people walking the streets, said O’Brion, encouraging the public to continue sharing tips with authorities. In addition, an undercover police vehicle has been canvassing neighborhoods recently, which has also helped authorities obtain additional, sensitive information for the case.

“Litchfield is a safe community, but if you see something suspicious, report it,” O’Brion said Tuesday. “It is not a bother. That is what you pay us to do.”

O’Brion said more information about the two individuals believed to be responsible for the burglaries will be released upon their arrests in the next several days. The investigation is ongoing, he added.

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